I’ve had the honor of attending a Founder’s workshop in 2009, focused on nonfiction storytelling and I can tell you, it was career-altering. As I mentioned to Kent, my four day immersion in the craft, aided by award winning author Barbara Kerley, and editor Kim Griswell, provided me several lightbulb moments. Enough so, that I completely re-envisioned the project I was working on. The very same project that later garnered interest from multiple editors and is (fingers crossed) on it’s way to an acquisitions meeting. Yes, I owe The Highlights Foundation my sincerest gratitude.

For those wondering, this workshop is appropriate for longer works of nonfiction for young readers AND nonfiction picture book. The goal is to work on an entire longer manuscript, or two picture book manuscripts to ready them for submission to an editor or agent. Yeehaw! The tuition is a bit steep, but worth every penny. If it’s beyond your financial abilities, know that Highlights offers generous scholarships and grants and they truly don’t want anybody to feel awkward about asking. Even if you’ve been a past scholarship recipient, they’re willing to work with you, when possible.

Voila! The Highlights Office Building

Intimate instruction settings in the home of the founders. An instructional “Barn” has since been built for workshops.

How could you not get in touch with your inner child here?

The founder’s home in Boyds Mills, PA. This is where Highlights was born. It continues to nourish the children’s literature community today.

I do believe this was the first Highlights for Children cover.

the most delectable food is served every day. Here, Barbara Kerley, Carmen Oliver, and Liz Armstrong Hall feast.

When’s the last time you had your very own cabin, overlooking the mountains? The perfect quaint, and charming setting for your imagination.

Lucky you, it’s not too late. The appropriate links to more information are activated within this post.